Camden Market and Camden Town: London’s Alternative Hub

Over a decade of living in London, I explored Camden Town and Camden Market many times – and since my first visits in the 1980’s I understand totally why this eclectic neighborhood remains London’s alt-culture capital. From the punk heritage of its markets (est. 1974) to legendary venues like the Roundhouse that hosted Hendrix, Camden rewards those who look beyond the tourist crowds. Here’s my locally-tested guide to experiencing authentic Camden, complete with:

Underground shopping gems most visitors miss

Current best food stalls (updated monthly via Camden Market’s app)

Little-known canal-side shortcuts to avoid crowds

Camden Town vs. Camden Market: What’s the Difference?

Camden Town is the entire neighborhood in North London, famous for its alternative culture, live music, and punk history. It’s a bustling district with streets full of shops, pubs, music venues (like The Roundhouse and Electric Ballroom), and residential areas.

Camden Market (or Camden Markets, plural) refers specifically to the collection of interconnected markets within Camden Town, Camden Town, London is a haven for art, culture, and alternative lifestyles. The neighbourhood is renowned for its eclectic attractions and at the heart of Camden Town is the iconic Camden Market, a sprawling maze of stalls offering an incredible array of fashion, crafts, antiques, and international cuisine.

Whether you’re seeking unique shopping experiences, culinary adventures, or a glimpse into London’s alternative subcultures, Camden Town is a must-visit destination that never fails to captivate and inspire.

Where is Camden Town?

Camden Town often shortened to Camden, is in the London Borough of Camden, around 2.5 miles (4.1 km) north of Charing Cross.

Getting to Camden Market

Camden Town Tube Station

Getting to the Camden Market Tube station is easy and the nearest stations to Camden Market are Camden Town, Chalk Farm, or Kentish Town. Check the stations for warnings before you go. The day we went to the Camden Market underground had technical difficulties and none of the escalators or elevators was working. This meant a spiral staircase with 98 steps down to the trains.

By Bus

From the West end of London, you can get to Camden Markets via routes 24, 29 and 134.

Things to do in Camden

Find Street Art in Camden

Camden Town is a vibrant open-air gallery, renowned for its ever-evolving street art that reflects the area’s rebellious spirit and cultural diversity. From large-scale murals to hidden stencils, the streets here burst with color and creativity, featuring works by both world-famous artists and local talent. Iconic pieces—like past Banksy originals (since removed or painted over) and the legendary “Amy Winehouse mural” by Sinna One near the Roundhouse—pay tribute to Camden’s music legacy.

The area around Camden Market and Hawley Wharf is particularly rich in art, with ever-changing displays on shutters, walls, and alleyways. Themes range from political statements to surreal fantasies, with artists like Stik, Otto Schade, and Ben Eine leaving their mark. Don’t miss the “Camden Lock Bridge” murals or the psychedelic collages near The Horse Tunnel.

For the best street art photos in Camden, head to these iconic spots:

Hawley Wharf & Camden Market Walls – The most concentrated area for bold murals, including rotating works by global artists. Don’t miss the giant octopus mural near the food stalls or the psychedelic portraits along the canal.

The Horse Tunnel (Stables Market) – A hidden gem with colorful collages and graffiti-covered arches, perfect for moody, underground shots.

Camden Lock Bridge – Covered in ever-changing street art, this is a hotspot for snapshots with the canal as your backdrop.

Amy Winehouse Mural (Chalk Farm Road) – The famous Sinna One portrait of Amy, just outside the Roundhouse, is a pilgrimage site for music fans.

Kentish Town Road (near Camden Tube) – Less crowded, with large-scale murals and political stencils by artists like Stik.

Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday morning for crowd-free shots, and keep an eye out for new pieces—Camden’s art scene evolves weekly!

Things to do in Camden, London – Visit Camden Market

Camden Market Hours

Every day: 10 am -late, including bank holidays, times may vary for each business. Camden Market is open on Sundays.

Camden Market Map

©Camden Lock & Stables market

Camden’s History: From Industrial Hub to Cultural Icon

Originally a quiet riverside settlement, Camden Town exploded into life during the Industrial Revolution, when the Regent’s Canal (1820) and railways transformed it into a vital transport hub for coal and goods. By the late 19th century, its horse stables and warehouses (now Stables Market) thrived, serving London’s booming trade.

The 20th century saw Camden’s gritty decline—until the 1970s punk movement resurrected it as a rebel playground, with icons like The Clash and Amy Winehouse cementing its reputation for raw creativity. Today, its markets, street art, and music venues blend Victorian industrial bones with counterculture cool, making Camden a living museum of London’s rebellious soul.

Camden Markets: Your Guide to London’s Most Eclectic Shopping Experience

Camden’s six distinct markets form a sprawling, vibrant shopping labyrinth with over 1,000 stalls across interconnected zones.

1. Camden Lock Market (The Creative Heart)
Main quadrant by the canal locks
10AM-late daily

What’s special: The original 1974 market, now housing indie designers, artisan crafts, and global street food

Don’t miss: The upper-level vintage arcade and canal-side dining pods

Pro tip: Wednesday mornings = least crowded creative workshops

2. Stables Market (Gothic & Vintage Mecca)
In converted 19th-century horse stables

700+ stalls in atmospheric tunnels and cobbled yards

Specializes in: Steampunk fashion, Victorian antiques, tattoo parlors

Hidden gem: The preserved horse hospital with rotating art installations

3. Boxpark Camden (Sustainable & Trendy)
located right next to Camden Town tube station

Focus: Eco-conscious young designers and pop-up concept shops

Unique feature: Shipping container retail units

4. Hawley Wharf (The Modern Addition)
Four-story complex by Regent’s Canal

Mix of: Boutique brands, craft cocktails, and food hall with 30+ vendors

Best for: Rainy-day shopping with canal views

5. Inverness Street Market (Local’s Choice)
Oldest section (since 1900s)

Daytime only: Fresh produce, cheap eats, and quirky household goods

Local secret: £5 lunch specials at family-run stalls

6. Camden Lock Village (Reborn After Fires)
Near railway arches

Eclectic mix: From handmade jewelry to rare vinyl

History buffs: Note the architectural blend of original industrial and modern rebuilds

Universal Market Tips:

Crowd hack: Visit weekdays 10-11AM or after 7PM

Bargaining: Expected at vintage/antique stalls (start at 60% of asking)

Safety: Wear crossbody bags in tight alleys

Navigation: Download the official Camden Market app for real-time maps

Off the Beaten Path Camden Market Shops

Camden isn’t just a market—it’s a rebellion stitched into leather jackets and hidden in the pockets of second-hand coats. Every piece I sell here has a story: a punk’s first gig, a poet’s heartbreak, or a traveler’s wildest adventure. This place? It’s where fashion refuses to die… it just gets resurrected with more glitter. A Vintage shop owner in Camden Market.

Beyond Camden’s well-trodden market lanes lie hidden shopping treasures most visitors overlook. Tucked beneath the railway arches near Chalk Farm Road, a cluster of independent designers showcase avant-garde fashion in repurposed industrial spaces – seek out the unmarked door with the neon “Studio X” sign for emerging London talent. Veteran thrifters know to explore the narrow staircases leading to second-level vintage emporiums in the Stables Market, where 1970s leather jackets and Victorian jewelry await beneath the main thoroughfares.

For truly underground finds, descend into the canal-side vaults beneath Hawley Wharf where experimental makers like Glass Alchemy (a molten-glass workshop) and The Typewriter Exchange (specializing in restored 1920s models) operate in moody, cave-like spaces. The most elusive gems hide in the market’s service corridors – follow the “Staff Only” signs near the Amy Winehouse statue to discover a secret row of artisans’ workshops where you can commission custom pieces direct from creators. These off-radar spots reveal Camden’s enduring creative spirit beneath its tourist facade.

The real prize for dedicated explorers? The Sunday-morning “Clandestine Market” that materializes before dawn in the abandoned horse tunnels beneath Dingwalls – arrive before 7am to browse illegal-print T-shirts, bootleg vinyl, and other underground wares before vendors pack up at sunrise. These hidden layers prove Camden still nurtures the rebellious energy that first made it legendary.

Fun Things to Do in Camden Town for Kids

Camden Town is a vibrant and exciting place for kids, offering a mix of quirky attractions, delicious food, and unique experiences. Start by exploring Camden Market, where little ones will love the colorful stalls, street performers, and funky toys. The Camden Lock area is great for watching boats pass by, and kids can enjoy interactive activities at the Canal Museum nearby.

For a sweet treat, grab some bubble waffles or gelato from the market’s food stalls. If your kids love animals, ZSL London Zoo is just a short walk away in Regent’s Park, home to lions, penguins, and a fantastic playground. For active fun, Camden Beach (seasonal) offers sand and games in summer, while Electric Ballroom sometimes hosts kid-friendly events. Don’t miss the giant “Camden” street sign for a fun photo op! With its lively atmosphere and family-friendly spots, Camden Town keeps kids entertained while parents enjoy the eclectic vibe.

Things to do in Camden at night – Camden Market Pubs

Camden Town truly comes alive at night, offering a thrilling mix of live music, historic pubs, and alternative nightlife that channels its rebellious punk roots. Start your evening at Dingwalls, the legendary venue where icons like The Clash and Joy Division once played—catch a gig or soak up the gritty atmosphere of this Camden institution.

For a taste of the area’s anarchic spirit, dive into the punk scene at The Dublin Castle or The Black Heart, where underground bands keep the raw energy of the ’70s alive. Gin lovers should head to The Camden Gin Joint or The Blues Kitchen for craft cocktails in dimly lit, retro-cool settings. As you wander, you’ll feel Camden’s musical history in its bones: from the Amy Winehouse statue to the Electric Ballroom, where Madness and The Smiths once stormed the stage.

Camden Town has long been a launchpad for young musicians, with its gritty venues, rebellious energy, and tight-knit creative community shaping artists like Dua Lipa and Yungblud early in their careers. Before becoming a global pop icon, Dua Lipa lived in Camden as a teenager, soaking up its eclectic music scene.  The punk-inspired singer Yungblud grew up in Doncaster but cemented his identity in Camden, playing raucous early gigs at The Monarch and Camden Assembly.

Camden’s Legendary Music Scene: A Live Music Lover’s Guide

1. The Roundhouse (Iconic Performance Space)
Chalk Farm Road | Check event schedules

History: Built in 1847 as a train turntable, hosted Hendrix/Doors

Insider tip: Free tours every Wednesday at 1PM

2. KOKO (Reborn Punk Palace)
1A Camden High St | Reopened 2022 after £70M renovation

Must-know: Original features kept (like the iconic dome)

Booking hack: Daytime café access gets you free venue tour

3. Electric Ballroom (Underground Institution)
184 Camden High St | Thu-Sun nights

• Since: 1938 (original dancehall)
• Specializes in: Indie/punk club nights + secret gigs
• Pro move: Arrive before 10PM to skip queues

4. Jazz Café (Intimate & World-Class)
5 Parkway | Dinner shows at 7PM

• Unique: Mezzanine dining with show views
• Best for: Sunday jazz brunches (book 3 weeks ahead)

5. Camden Assembly (Hidden Gem)
49 Chalk Farm Rd

• Vibe: 150-capacity sweatbox for new bands
• Free entry: Before 8PM most nights

Camden Food Guide: From Street Eats to Fine Dining

Market Must-Eats

Olie Baba’s (Halloumi fries)
Hawley Wharf | 11AM-9PM

Order: “The Full Greek” with harissa honey

Vegan option: Fried feta alternative

Magic Falafel
Middle Yard | 10AM-8PM

Secret menu: Ask for “extra amba” (mango pickle sauce)

Arepazo Bros (Venezuelan)
Buck Street | 12PM-10PM

Must-try: Pabellón arepa + plantain fries combo

B. Sit-Down Spots
Lockside Camden (Date night)
West Yard | Book for canal-side tables

Famous for: “Evil Twin” vegan burger

Poppies (British classic)
6-8 Hanbury St

Quirk: 1940s decor with live jazz Sundays

C. Local Drinking Holes
Half Hitch Gin (Micro-distillery)
Market Hall | Tasting flights until 11PM

Try: “Lock Master” with bergamot tonic

Dingwalls (Punk pub)
Middle Yard

Happy hour: 5-7PM weekdays

Tip: Many attractions are free, but markets get crowded—visit on weekday mornings for a calmer experience.

Hidden Gems of Camden Town

Camden Town is a treasure trove of unique museums, historic landmarks, and offbeat attractions that offer visitors an unforgettable taste of London’s alternative culture. Nearby, the London Canal Museum (a short walk toward King’s Cross) delves into the city’s industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and seasonal boat tours.

For art and culture, Camden doesn’t disappoint. The Camden Art Centre showcases cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions in a serene setting, while the streets themselves serve as an open-air gallery, adorned with vibrant murals and graffiti—some by renowned artists like Banksy.

If you need a break from the crowds, take a short stroll to Primrose Hill for breathtaking skyline views. Whether you’re into history, music, street art, or just soaking up Camden’s eclectic vibe, there’s something here for every visitor.

Tours in Camden Town

Camden Pub Crawl

Experience the wild side of Camden —  one of London’s most eclectic neighbourhoods — on a 4-hour bar crawl, designed to delight party animals and lovers of alternative nightlife. Alongside fellow revellers, you’ll visit five popular Camden haunts and enjoy a free shot in each venue. Receive discounted drink details and let a professional photographer capture fun-filled moments throughout the evening.

Book your Camden Pub Crawl

Cultural Camden Tour

Crowded markets and dodgy souvenir t-shirts aren’t the only things Camden has to offer. This self-guided audio tour takes you through the hustle and bustle and into some of the less well-trodden parts of Camden’s past and present, from old graveyards to modern street art and the occasional poem from your local resident guide.

Book your Cultural Camden Tour

Private Camden Market Walking tour

Camden, the quirky district of the capital, is known for its “alternative” cultures. From his working past to his key role in the music scene, discover its rich history with a local guide.

Book your Camden Market Walking tour

Where to stay in Camden Town

HOLIDAY INN – Camden Lock

Very affordable at around $160.00 per night all the usual amenities and a great location.

Book your Holiday Inn now

HOSTEL 1

A traditional hostel above a pub, mixed dorm rooms only great reviews.

Book your Hostel 1 now

ST CHRISTOPHER’S INN  

St Christopher’s Camden is situated above Belushi’s bar which features drink deals and homemade burgers. Mixed dorms, female-only dorms and private rooms with twin beds are available. Shared bathrooms and free wifi in public areas.

Book St. Christopher’s Inn now

YORK & ALBANY HOTEL    

A very luxurious boutique hotel situated above a Gordon Ramsay restaurant all the mod cons and averaging around $450 a night.

Book your luxury stay at the York & Albany

Visiting the vibrant attractions of Camden Town is an experience that promises to leave a lasting impression. With its eclectic mix of markets, live music venues, and street art, this neighbourhood offers a unique and unforgettable adventure. Exploring the bustling Camden Market, indulging in diverse culinary delights, and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the area give you a chance to see the real London. It’s a place where creativity thrives, and every corner tells a story.

Visiting London: A Perfect Blend of Iconic & Unexpected

London dazzles with its mix of royal history, world-class museums, and vibrant street life. Must-sees like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace sit alongside quirky hidden gems – think secret alleys with speakeasy bars or tiny museums dedicated to everything from fans to Sherlock Holmes. Time-pressed? London in 2 Days is doable: Day 1 for Westminster, the London Eye, and a West End show; Day 2 for Camden Market, the British Museum, and sunset views from Primrose Hill. Craving fresh air? Day trips from London offer easy escapes: Oxford’s dreaming spires, the mystical stones of Stonehenge, or the seaside charm of Brighton.

London’s best food markets are a feast for the senses. Borough Market’s artisanal cheeses and gourmet treats, Maltby Street’s weekend vibe, and Camden’s global street food stalls are unmissable. For something different, explore hidden gems in London: Neal’s Yard’s rainbow-colored courtyard, the surreal Sir John Soane’s Museum, or the ancient Temple of Mithras buried under the city. Chinatown bursts with dumpling houses and bubble tea, while street food markets like Dinerama in Shoreditch or Kerb by the Southbank serve up everything from loaded fries to fiery Thai curries. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, London always has something new to discover.

Explore more of the region with guides to England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or the full United Kingdom Travel Guide. If you are a foodie have a read of my Global Food Guide.